Members of the Roanoke Chapter of Continental Societies, Inc. were proud to serve as co-hosts for the 33rd Mid-Atlantic Regional meeting Friday and Saturday, March 10-11 at the Holiday Inn, Ordway Dr. It was a wonderful event planned by local Co-chairs, Gloria Randolph-King and Quo Vadis Washington-Brown, assisted by MAR Regional Director, Jean Roach; Regional Planning Chair, Gail Anderson and local president, Donna Lee.
With the theme, “Continentals Shine in the Star City” 85 plus ladies and husbands traveled from South Carolina, North Carolina; as well, Eastern and Northern parts of Virginia to the mountains and the “Star City of the South.” All 13 chapters of the Mid-Atlantic Region (MAR) were represented.
The Awards Luncheon on Saturday was very exciting with an opening act by Youth Praise Dancers from New Life Christian Church under the direction of Min. Charnika Elliott.
As Co-host, the Roanoke Chapter was responsible for identifying local judges for the awards presented at the luncheon. The judges in attendance were Brenda Hale, Brenda Debose, Gail Thompson, Angelia Vernon and Rebecca Pullins.
Camp Apple Ridge Farms has been the MAR’s special project for years and after a splendid presentation from the new director, John Lewis, Apple Ridge received personal donations of nearly $2,000. This year, the Rescue Mission received socks and underwear along with other donated items. Helen Ferguson was present to receive the donations.
Other honors and recognitions received included Certificate of Merit for significant numbers of youth served; Outstanding service in providing the HEER programs; Membership increase from 13 to 17 and participation and reading to over 1000 youth in the “African American Read In” initiative.
The meeting included workshops on Leadership and Membership and an innovative HEER program from the Tri-Cities chapter. All of the wonderful speakers, presenters, vendors, souvenir books, gifts and prizes made this occasion one that will always be remembered, especially by the host Roanoke Chapter.
The chapter was also elated that Continental Gloria Randolph-King, who has served as the Regional Chaplain for the past 2 years, was elected as 2017-2019 Regional Corresponding secretary.
National officers present at the meeting included National President, Edna Lee Moffitt, and Esq. National 1st Vice President Robin Brower. The Continental Stars were really shining in the Star City of the South that weekend.
